TravTalk India Online Magazine
Call it a treasure full of hidden gems, Thailand is a destination which always offer an experience imagination. Thailand’s attractions are diverse, and each provides a rewarding and memorable experience in its own way. For some inspiration when planning a trip, here is a list of new destination in the Land of Smiles which Indian travellers can explore beyond traditional tourist hot-spots:
Khao Yai (Beyond Bangkok)
Located at 3 hours drive from Bangkok, Khao Yai is blessed with a lush, mountainous landscape, with fertile valleys, pounding waterfalls and rich biodiversity. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Khao Yai is a year-round getaway destination which boasts a range of wild-west theme parks and vineyards of Thailand’s award-winning labels, such as Pirom Khao Yai Reserve and Sawasdee Chenin Blanc. The south and east are peppered with a wealth of natural wonders, from Prachinburi’s jungle-clad waterfalls to Wang Nam Kheo’s ozone-rich valleys.
Chiang Rai (Beyond Chiang Mai)
Beautiful mountainous province in northern Thailand, Chiang Rai is very famous for its relaxed atmosphere fine local food and good-value accommodation. Compared to its sister town, Chiang Mai, it has a more relaxed and down-to-earth feel but is never short on historical and cultural attractions of its own. Founded in 1262 as the capital of the Mengrai Dynasty, after Chiang Saen, today the city retains a strong Lanna identity, mostly through its impressive collection of temples, art, language, cuisine and music.
Koh Chang (Beyond Pattaya)
One of the largest Thai islands in the Gulf of Thailand, Koh Chang contains dense, steep jungle. The coast is dotted with long white sandy beaches and villages including Bang Bao, built on piers. Hat Tha Nam (aka Lonely Beach) has a waterfront party scene that attracts backpackers. Ko Chang means “Elephant Island,” and indeed, if you’d like an up-close-and-personal encounter with the world’s largest land mammal. With an area covering approximately 212 square kilometres, 70% of Koh Chang is covered in rainforests, mountains and beaches.
Khao Lak (Beyond Phuket)
Just an hour’s drive north of Phuket, Khao Lak is one of Thailand’s most peaceful resort destinations. Unlike Phuket, the many resorts in the Khao Lak area cater mainly to families and those looking for peace, quiet, and nature. The name Khao Lak translates as Lak Mountain. The mountain is the centrepiece of Khao Lak Lam Ru National Park. The headland formed as the mountain plunges into the sea near the southern end of the Khao Lak roughly marks the southern boundary of the Khao Lak region. The area is still unspoilt and far from the overcrowded holiday destinations of Thailand. It is the right place to relax and enjoy a natural environment where the Andaman sea meets the primary forest.
